Patrons of the Arts Award recognizes Bank Sarasin-Alpen and Alpen Capital for their contribution to the Arts for a second time

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated presented the “Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts” award to Alpen Capital (ME) Limited and its private banking associate, Bank Sarasin-Alpen (ME) Limited on 3 April 2011 at an awards ceremony held at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel.

Bank Sarasin-Alpen and Alpen Capital were awarded for their contribution to the creative scene in Dubai through their organization of the Global Fusion concert annually in Dubai. Global Fusion is the flagship event of both companies and has been organized since 2005 for its clients. The musical event brings together artists from various musical genres and from different corners of the world.  Global Fusion was introduced to mark the launch of both companies in Dubai in 2005 and provides a unique platform to showcase and integrate the best of both traditional and contemporary music from different musical heritages. Till date, of the 14 fusion concerts that have been organized in the region seven have been held in Dubai, four in Muscat and three in Doha.

Over the years, Global Fusion has evolved and it now provides a platform to promote talented local musicians in the Middle East by giving them an opportunity to perform with world renowned musicians. The Dubai Fusion event in January 2010 featured Adel Al Khumais, the UAE National Oudh player and the 2011 event featured the Oudh Player, Ali Obeid. This tradition of supporting local musicians has also been extended to the concerts in Doha and Muscat.

In addition, Alpen Capital and Bank Sarasin-Alpen have also instituted an annual award which is presented to honour artistes who have contributed to Global Fusion over the years. Previous award winners include Dr. L Subramanian, Charbel Rouhana, George Brooks,Vikku Vinayakram and Ustad Shujaat Khan.

Rohit Walia, Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, Bank Sarasin Alpen and Alpen Capital Group, “We are honoured to have received the “Patrons of the Arts” Award for Global Fusion from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for a second time. As an organization with sustainability as its core focus, we are proud to have won this award to show our enduring commitment to the Arts.”

The Patrons of the Arts Award was instituted in March 2009 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai to honour and recognize individuals, businesses, organizations and government entities that have demonstrated financial and in kind contributions towards the arts in Dubai through sustained support and promotion of artistic activity. Contributions were recognized in the disciplines of visual arts, film, literature and performing arts during 2010. The awards honoured patrons in the following categories: 'Distinguished Patrons of the Arts,' 'Patrons of the Arts,' 'Supporters of the Arts,’ and 'Friends of the Arts' based on their contribution.